However, since reporting back for pre-season training Benteke has discussed his future with manager Paul Lambert and the striker has instead agreed to a new deal at Villa,

“I spoke with the Manager when I returned to training and we had a good talk. I am very happy to be back here in Birmingham and at Aston Villa, and to sign a new contract,” the Belgium international told the club’s website.

“I had a full and frank discussion with Christian Benteke on his return to training this week regarding his future,” Lambert added.

“I’m delighted, having time to re-evaluate his future, Christian has decided to commit to the Club.”

This decision will come as a massive blow to Tottenham who have also missed out on former Barcelona attacker David Villa this summer – with the Spaniard instead joining Atletico Madrid.

The north London club’s search for a forward is beginning to become desperate, as manager Andre Villas-Boas does not want another season with just Jermain Defoe and Emmanuel Adebayor as first team strikers.

However, with Benteke committing his future to Villa the options for Spurs are dwindling quickly.